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2014 Holiday tipping guide

With every new holiday season the question comes up, how much should I tip? Here are a few guidelines by job type.

Doorman: $30-$100 each (those who provide the most service for you should get more than those whom you barely see)

Building Superintendent/Custodian: $30 - $100 is considered appropriate. If you relied heavily on them, you may want to aim for the $100 mark.

Newspaper Carrier: $20-$50 is appropriate. Providing the delivery has been consistent with no chew marks. A small seasonal or food gift might replace a cash tip.

Mail Carrier: Government employees are not allowed to accept cash, consider giving a gift card up to $20. Food items might also be considered. Be aware postal regulations require perishable items, a gift basked for example, to be shared with the entire branch.

Delivery Drivers: If you depend upon regular deliveries to keep your business or life running, consider a tip in the neighborhood of $20.

Parking Attendant: A tip of $10-$40 each is appropriate.

Personal trainer: Up to the cost of one session or a gift.

Housekeeper: The standard is tipping what you pay per visit.

Gardener: If you have a personal gardener, $20 to $100 depending on what you pay weekly or monthly.

Trash/Recycling collectors: $10-30 each

Waiter or Waitress: If you have a waiter / waitress you see regularly at a favorite restaurant or when entertaining clients, an additional holiday tip of $20 to $50 is always appreciated.

Teacher/tutor: Don’t spend more than $25.

Hair stylist: At least twice your regular tip (15-20% of the bill).

Regular Babysitter: One evening’s pay and a small gift from your child(ren).

Massage therapist: Cost of one session.

Private nurse: A thoughtful gift from you.

Pet groomer: Up to the cost of one session or a gift.

Dog walker: Up to one week’s pay.

Pool cleaner: The cost of one cleaning to be split among the crew.

Handyman: $15 to $40, depending on how much work you’ve had him do.

Coaches, tutors, music, dance teachers: A small gift from your child.

Taxi: 15% Of the total fare, or 20% if the driver unloads your bags.

Not comfortable giving cash tips? Tip experts say a gift can be acceptable also. Apply the suggested tip dollar values to the gift you give.

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